What should you do when your vehicle hydroplanes?

When your vehicle hydroplanes, the best action is to release the accelerator. Hydroplaning occurs when water on the road causes your tires to lose traction, leading to a loss of control. By easing off the accelerator, vehicles can often regain traction as the wheels reestablish contact with the road surface.

This approach allows for a smoother reintroduction of friction and helps stabilize the vehicle. Maintaining a firm grip on the steering wheel is also essential during this time, allowing for any necessary minor adjustments without oversteering.

The other options can lead to further loss of control. For instance, starting stab braking can cause the wheels to lock up, which may exacerbate the skidding. Accelerating slightly could further disengage the tires from the road, worsening the hydroplaning. Turning the steering wheel sharply can lead to skidding or flipping the vehicle, putting you and others on the road in danger. Therefore, releasing the accelerator is the safest and most effective action when experiencing hydroplaning.